Optimized pneumatic drive lines

ABSTRACT

In one exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a system. The system includes a pneumatic surgical instrument and a surgical console operable to provide compressed gas to the pneumatic surgical instrument. Additionally, the system includes a pneumatic drive line coupling the pneumatic surgical instrument to the surgical console. The pneumatic drive line has an internal bore configured to deliver the compressed gas to the pneumatic surgical instrument. The internal bore has a non-uniform cross-section along a length of the pneumatic drive line.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to a pneumatic drive linehaving a non-uniform internal cross-section that is used to drivepneumatic surgical instruments in surgical procedures such as, forexample, a vitrectomy procedure.

A vitrectomy procedure may be performed to clear blood and debris fromthe eye, to remove scar tissue, or to alleviate traction on the retina.Blood, inflammatory cells, debris, and scar tissue may obscure light asit passes through the eye to the retina, resulting in blurred vision.The vitreous may also be removed if it is pulling or tugging the retinafrom its normal position. Some of the most common eye conditions thatrequire vitrectomy include complications from diabetic retinopathy suchas retinal detachment or bleeding, macular hole, retinal detachment,pre-retinal membrane fibrosis, bleeding inside the eye (vitreoushemorrhage), injury or infection, and certain problems related toprevious eye surgery.

In a vitrectomy, the surgeon may create three tiny incisions in the eyefor three separate instruments. These incisions may be placed in thepars plana of the eye, which is located just behind the iris but infront of the retina. The instruments which pass through these incisionsmay include a light pipe, an infusion port, and the vitrectomy cuttingdevice. The light pipe is the equivalent of a microscopic high-intensityflashlight for use within the eye. The infusion port may be used toreplace fluid in the eye and maintain proper pressure within the eye.The vitrectomy probe, or cutting device, may work like a tinyguillotine, with an oscillating microscopic cutter to remove thevitreous gel in a controlled fashion. This may prevent significanttraction on the retina during the removal of the vitreous humor.

Traditionally, the vitrectomy probe is connected to a surgical machinethat is used to perform the vitrectomy procedure and other surgeries onthe posterior of the eye. The surgical machine may provide power to andcontrol the operation of the attached vitrectomy probe. In order toprovide pneumatic power to the vitrectomy probe, the surgical machinemay include a pneumatic or air distribution module. This pneumaticmodule may condition and supply compressed air or gas to power theprobe. The pneumatic module may be connected to a cylinder that containscompressed gas.

Typically, the surgical machine connects to a vitrectomy probe via atubing. Such tubing traditionally has a constant inside diameter alongthe length of the tubing. Thus, the size of the passageway within thetubing remains the same as the pressurized gas travels from the surgicalmachine to the vitrectomy probe. This results in a tube having the samedegree of flexibility throughout the length of the tube. Additionally,because the tubing has a constant inside diameter along the length ofthe tubing, the tubing is not optimized for pneumatic performance.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a system.The system includes a pneumatic surgical instrument and a surgicalconsole operable to provide compressed gas to the pneumatic surgicalinstrument. Additionally, the system includes a pneumatic drive linecoupling the pneumatic surgical instrument to the surgical console. Thepneumatic drive line has an internal bore configured to deliver thecompressed gas to the pneumatic surgical instrument. The internal borehas a non-uniform cross-section along a length of the pneumatic driveline.

In one exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a system.The system includes a pneumatic surgical instrument and a source ofcompressed gas. Also, the system has a pneumatic drive line coupling thepneumatic surgical instrument to the source. The pneumatic drive linehas a passageway extending therethrough that is sized and shaped todeliver the compressed gas to the pneumatic surgical instrument. Thepassageway has a non-uniform diameter from the source of the compressedgas to the pneumatic surgical instrument.

In one exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a system.The system includes a pneumatic drive line operable to drive a pneumaticsurgical instrument. The pneumatic drive line including a passagewayextending therethrough to provide compressed gas to the pneumaticsurgical instrument. The passageway has a non-uniform cross-sectionalong a length of the pneumatic drive line.

These and other aspects, forms, objects, features, and benefits of thepresent disclosure will become apparent from the following detaileddrawings and description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the presentdisclosure. Together with a general description of the presentdisclosure given above, and the detailed description given below, thedrawings serve to exemplify the embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary surgical console forperforming various ophthalmic procedures including a vitrectomyaccording to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system for powering asurgical instrument according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a probe cutter of the surgical instrumentof FIG. 2 according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of steppedpneumatic drive lines usable with the pneumatic system shown in FIG. 2according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of a sleevecoupling the stepped pneumatic drive line shown in FIG. 4 according toone aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of analternative embodiment of a stepped pneumatic drive line usable withpneumatic system shown in FIG. 2 according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of analternative embodiment of stepped pneumatic drive lines usable with thepneumatic system shown in FIG. 2 according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of taperedpneumatic drive lines usable with the pneumatic system shown in FIG. 2according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of analternative embodiment of tapered pneumatic drive lines usable with thepneumatic system shown in FIG. 2 according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of ophthalmicsurgery, and more particularly to a pneumatic drive line having anon-uniform internal cross-section and/or diameter that is used to drivepneumatic surgical instruments in surgical procedures such as, forexample, a vitrectomy procedure. For the purposes of promoting anunderstanding of the principles of the present disclosure, referencewill now be made to embodiments or examples illustrated in the drawings,and specific language will be used to describe these examples. It willnevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of thepresent disclosure is thereby intended. Any alteration and furthermodifications in the described embodiments, and any further applicationsof the principles of the present disclosure as described herein arecontemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to whichthe disclosure relates.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary surgical console 100 forperforming various ophthalmic surgical procedures. In that regard,surgical console 100 is configured to assist a user in performing avitrectomy procedure. More specifically, surgical console 100 isconfigured to drive pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Here, pneumaticsurgical instrument 102 is a vitrectomy probe. However, in otherembodiments, pneumatic surgical instrument 102 can be any otherpneumatic surgical instruments powered by a pneumatic drive line.

As shown in FIG. 1, pneumatic surgical instrument 102 is coupled tosurgical console 100 via pneumatic drive lines 104 and 106, or tubing.Here, surgical console 100 has ports 108 designed to couple pneumaticdrive lines 104 and 106 to the surgical console 100. As discussed ingreater detail below, pneumatic drive lines 104 and 106 provide power topneumatic surgical instrument 102. That is, surgical console 100provides a compressed gas, such as nitrogen, through pneumatic drivelines 104 and 106 to drive and/or power pneumatic surgical instrument102. Although FIG. 1 shows two separate pneumatic drive lines poweringpneumatic surgical instrument 102, other embodiments utilize a singlepneumatic drive line or more than two pneumatic drive lines. Thus, nolimitation to the number of pneumatic drive lines is implied herein topower pneumatic surgical instrument 102.

Additionally, surgical console 100 also includes a fluidics module 110.Fluidics module 110 is configured to support irrigation and/oraspiration functions during a surgical procedure. In other words,although not shown, pneumatic surgical instrument 102 can be coupled tofluidics module 110 via additional tubings configured to supportirrigation and/or aspiration functions with respect to pneumaticsurgical instrument 102 or any other instrument connected to surgicalconsole 100.

Additionally, surgical console 100 includes a display 112. Display 112is operable to display information to a user of the console. In thatregard, display 112 provides visual information relevant to theoperation of pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Also, display 112 may bea touchscreen display that receives user input and assist in ease ofoperation for a user of console 100.

Referring to FIG. 2, a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system 200 forpowering pneumatic surgical instrument 102 is shown. As shown, surgicalconsole 100 includes a source 202 of compressed gas, such as nitrogen,that is used to power and/or drive pneumatic surgical instrument 102.Pneumatic system 200 also includes a controller 204. Controller 204 isin communication with source 202 and is configured to regulate thepressure of the compressed gas within source 202. In that regard,controller 204 regulates pressure within source 202 by balancing betweenlower pressures that allow for reduction in gas consumption and higherpressures that allow for faster driving of pneumatic surgical instrument102 (e.g. allow for faster cut rates and/or increase a dynamic range ofavailable cut rates for pneumatic surgical instrument 102). In otherembodiments, the pressure within source 202 may also be regulated by aseparate controller that is external to the surgical console 100.

As shown in FIG. 2, the pneumatic system 200 includes pneumatic valve206. Pneumatic valve 206 is coupled to source 202 and channels 208 and210. Also, pneumatic valve 206 is in communication with controller 204.Here, pneumatic valve 206 is a four-way valve. However, other valveconfigurations are also contemplated for pneumatic valve 206.

Pneumatic valve 206 includes a solenoid that operates to move the valve206 to one of two positions as directed by control signals fromcontroller 204. In a first position, pneumatic valve 206 allowspressurized gas from source 202 to pass through pneumatic valve 206 tochannel 210 to provide pneumatic power to pneumatic surgical instrument102 via pneumatic drive line 106 while venting pressurized gas frompneumatic drive line 104 via channel 208 through muffler 212. In asecond position, pneumatic valve 206 allows pressurized gas from source202 to pass through pneumatic valve 206 to channel 208 to providepneumatic power to pneumatic surgical instrument 102 via pneumatic driveline 104 while venting pressurized gas from pneumatic drive line 106 viachannel 210 through muffler 212.

As discussed above, pneumatic surgical instrument 102 is a vitrectomyprobe. As shown in FIG. 2, pneumatic surgical instrument 102 has a probecutter 214 and dual chambers separated by a diaphragm 216. In thatregard, pneumatic drive line 104 is coupled to an in communication withfirst chamber 218 and pneumatic drive line 106 is coupled to an incommunication with second chamber 220.

Accordingly, when the pneumatic valve 206 is in the first position, thesecond chamber 220 of pneumatic surgical instrument 102 is charged bybeing filled with pressurized gas delivered via pneumatic drive line 106while the first chamber 218 is discharged by the release of pressurizedgas into pneumatic drive line 104. Moreover, when the pneumatic valve206 is in the second position, the first chamber 218 of pneumaticsurgical instrument 102 is charged by being filled with pressurized gasdelivered via pneumatic drive line 104 while the second chamber 220 isdischarged by the release of pressurized gas into pneumatic drive line106. As will be described in greater detail below, the switching of thepneumatic valve 206 between the first and second positions causes thediaphragm 216 to oscillate or move the probe cutter 214 in order to cutvitreous tissue within a patient's eye.

Referring to FIG. 3 an illustration of probe cutter 214 of the pneumaticsurgical instrument 102 is shown. As discussed above, the switching ofthe pneumatic valve 206 between the first and second positions causesthe diaphragm 216 to oscillate or move the probe cutter 214. Thismovement or oscillation by probe cutter 214 is identified by arrow A.

Probe cutter 214 acts as a cutting device. In that regard, probe cutter214 has a sharpened end 302 and is surrounded in part by an outer tube304. Also, outer tube 304 includes a cutter port 306, or opening.Because the probe cutter 214 moves back and forth within outer tube 304as identified by arrow A, the probe cutter 214 alternately opens andcloses cutter port 304 with sharpened end 302 of the probe cutter 214.As such, the opening and closing of cutter port 304 with sharpened end302 of the probe cutter 214 can cut through material placed adjacent theprobe cutter, such as vitreous in a patient's eye during a vitrectomy.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of steppedpneumatic drive lines usable with pneumatic system 200 to drivepneumatic surgical instrument 102. As shown, surgical console 100 andpneumatic surgical instrument 102 are coupled to stepped pneumatic drivelines 402 and 404. Stepped pneumatic drive lines 402 and 404 are used insystem 200 in place of pneumatic drive lines 104 and 106, respectively.As such, all description herein related to pneumatic drive lines 104 and106 is applicable to stepped pneumatic drive lines 402 and 404 unlessstated otherwise.

Stepped pneumatic drive line 402 will be described below. The featuresdiscussed with respect to stepped pneumatic drive line 402 are presentin and equally applicable to stepped pneumatic drive line 404. As such,similar reference numerals have been used in FIG. 4 to identify similarfeatures with respect to stepped pneumatic drive lines 402 and 404.

Also, even though FIG. 4 shows two separate stepped pneumatic drivelines 402 and 404 powering pneumatic surgical instrument 102, otherembodiments utilize a single stepped pneumatic drive line or more thantwo stepped pneumatic drive lines. Thus, no limitation to the number ofstepped pneumatic drive lines is implied herein to power pneumaticsurgical instrument 102.

Stepped pneumatic drive line 402 has a first segment 406 and a secondsegment 408. The first segment 406 has a proximal end 410 that iscoupled to surgical console 100 via ports 108 and a distal end 412 thatis coupled to the second segment 406 via a sleeve 414, or coupler.Additionally, the first segment includes an internal bore 416, orpassageway extending from the proximal end 410 to the distal end 412 ofthe first segment 406.

Although sleeve 414 is shown coupling the first segment 406 and thesecond segment 408, it is contemplated that any other means can be usedto couple the two segments together. For example, in other embodimentsone of the segments is configured to be slid into the other segmentthereby coupling the segments without the use of sleeve 414.Additionally, in other embodiments, the pneumatic drive line 402 ismanufactured as a continuous drive line having the two or more segmentswith the stepped configuration. In such an embodiment, the pneumaticdrive line does not require the sleeve coupling the segments because thesegments have been manufactured into a continuous drive line having thestepped configuration.

As shown, first segment 406 has a substantially constant outsidediameter OD₁ from the proximal end 410 to the distal end 412 of thefirst segment 406. By way of example, and not by limitation, OD₁ can beabout 0.250 inches. Moreover, OD₁ can range from about 0.15 inches toabout 0.5 inches. However, other dimensions for OD₁ are contemplatedthereby no implied limitation is set forth herein.

Additionally, internal bore 416 of first segment 406 has a substantiallyconstant inside diameter ID₁ extending from the proximal end 410 to thedistal end 412 of the first segment 406. By way of example, and not bylimitation, ID₁ can be about 0.150 inches. Moreover, ID₁ can range fromabout 0.1 inches to about 0.3 inches. However, other dimensions for ID₁are contemplated thereby no implied limitation is set forth herein.

Second segment 408 has a proximal end 418 that is coupled to the firstsegment 406 via sleeve 414 and a distal end 420 that is coupled topneumatic surgical instrument 102. Additionally, the second segment 408includes an internal bore 422, or passageway extending from the proximalend 418 to the distal end 420 of the second segment 408.

As shown, second segment 408 has a substantially constant outsidediameter OD₂ from the proximal end 418 to the distal end 420 of thesecond segment 408. By way of example, and not by limitation, OD₂ can beabout 0.125 inches. Furthermore, OD₂ can range from about 0.05 inches toabout 0.20 inches. However, other dimensions for OD₂ are contemplatedthereby no implied limitation is set forth herein.

Additionally, internal bore 422 of second segment 408 has asubstantially constant inside diameter ID₂ extending from the proximalend 418 to the distal end 420 of the second segment 408. By way ofexample, and not by limitation, ID₂ can be about 0.06 inches.Furthermore, ID₂ can range from about 0.01 inches to about 0.150 inches.However, other dimensions for ID₂ are contemplated thereby no impliedlimitation is set forth herein.

Accordingly, the second segment 408 is “stepped” down relative to thefirst segment 406. In that regard, the outside diameter OD₁ of the firstsegment 406 is greater than the outside diameter OD₂ of the secondsegment 408. Moreover, the inside diameter ID₁ of the first segment 406is greater than the inside diameter ID₂ of the second segment 408.Therefore, because the second segment 408 is “stepped” down from thefirst segment 406, the passageway extending through stepped pneumaticdrive line 402 has a non-uniform cross-section and/or diameter as thepneumatic drive line extends from surgical console 100 to pneumaticsurgical instrument 102.

Based on this stepped configuration, stepped pneumatic drive line 402increases the performance of pneumatic surgical instrument 102 incomparison to other pneumatic instruments using traditional pneumaticdrive line tubing. As discussed above, traditional pneumatic drive linetubing has a constant inside diameter along the length of the tubing.Thus, the size of the passageway within the tubing remains the same asthe pressurized gas travels from the surgical console to the surgicalinstrument.

By contrast, stepped pneumatic drive line 402 has a non-constant ornon-uniform inside diameter (or cross-section) along the length of thedrive line. The use of a non-constant inside diameter allows steppedpneumatic drive line 402 to be optimized based on its functional needsalong its length. Because stepped pneumatic drive line 402 can beconsidered closed at its end coupled to pneumatic surgical instrument102 and is being driven from the end of the line coupled to console 100,the driven end of stepped pneumatic drive line 402 has a higher gas flowrequirement. Thus, in order to optimize gas flow, the driven end ofstepped pneumatic drive line 402 should have a larger diameter than theclosed end.

Here, first segment 406 has a larger inside diameter ID₁ for internalbore 416 than the inside diameter ID₂ for internal bore 422 of segment408. As such, internal bore 416 allows for a larger volume ofpressurized gas to be received into the line from console 100 where highflow of pressured gas is most important in order to optimize pneumaticperformance.

Additionally, as discussed above, the use of a non-constant insidediameter allows stepped pneumatic drive line 402 to be optimized basedon its functional needs along its length. In that regard, becausetraditional pneumatic drive lines have constant diameters, the portionof the drive line adjacent the surgical instrument still has the samelarge inside diameter required at the other end being driven by thesurgical console. As such, the tubing has a larger than ideal size andmass and as a result the tubing is typically not as flexible as would bedesirable near the surgical instrument.

Stepped pneumatic drive line 402 addresses this issue. As discussedabove, stepped pneumatic drive line 402 includes second segment 408having a smaller inside diameter ID₂ and outside diameter OD₂ than theinside diameter ID₁ and outside diameter OD₁ of segment 406. As such,stepped pneumatic drive line 402 provides a smaller drive line (e.g.second segment 408) adjacent the pneumatic surgical instrument 102 wherehigh flexibility and low mass are most important for a user of pneumaticsurgical instrument 102. Therefore, stepped pneumatic drive line 402tubing is configured to provide greater flexibility and a low mass whilestill optimizing pneumatic performance.

FIG. 5 shows a partial cross-sectional view of sleeve 414 coupling thedistal end 412 of the first segment 406 to the proximal end 418 of thesecond segment 408. As shown, sleeve 414 has a proximal bore 502,connecting bore 504, or middle bore, and a distal bore 506. Proximalbore 502 is sized and shaped for receiving distal end 412 of the firstsegment 406.

Moreover, proximal bore 502 is defined in part by interior surface 508of sleeve 414. In that regard, interior surface 508 is tapered or slopedtowards connecting bore 504. As a result, distal end 412 of the firstsegment 406 is coupled to sleeve 414 via a press-fit or sealingengagement by the tapered interior surface 508 applying a coupling forceagainst the distal end 412.

Additionally, proximal bore 502 includes stops 510. Stops 510 preventsthe distal end 412 from extending into connecting bore 504. In thatregard, distal end 412 of the first segment 406 abuts against the stops510 when fully inserted into sleeve 414. Thus, stops 510 prevent overinsertion of distal end 412 into sleeve 414.

Distal bore 506 is sized and shaped for receiving proximal end 418 ofthe second segment 408. Distal bore 506 is defined in part by interiorsurface 516 of sleeve 414. In that regard, interior surface 516 istapered or sloped towards connection bore 504. As a result, proximal end418 of the second segment 408 is coupled to sleeve via a press-fit orsealing engagement by the tapered interior surface applying a couplingforce against the proximal end 418.

Additionally, distal bore 506 includes stops 518. Stops 518 prevents theproximal end 418 from extending into connecting bore 504. In thatregard, proximal end 418 of the second segment 408 abuts against thestops 518 when fully inserted into sleeve 414. Thus, stops 518 preventover insertion of proximal end 418 into sleeve 414.

As shown, connecting bore 504 is positioned between the proximal bore502 and the distal bore 506. Connecting bore has a conical shape. Inthat regard, interior surface 520 defines connecting bore 504 and taperstoward distal bore 506. As such, opening 512 of connecting bore 504adjacent the proximal bore 502 has a larger diameter than opening 514adjacent the distal bore 506. Moreover, opening 512 has a diametersubstantially similar to the inside diameter ID₁ of internal bore 416 ofthe first segment 406. Additionally, opening 514 has a diametersubstantially similar to the inside diameter ID₂ of internal bore 422 ofthe second segment 408. Because of the sizing of openings 512 and 514and the conical shape of connecting bore 504, a seal is formed betweeninternal bore 416 of the first segment and internal bore 422 of thesecond segment 408 that enables pressurized gas to flow therethrough.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of analternative embodiment of a stepped pneumatic drive line 600 usable withpneumatic system 200. As shown, surgical console 100 and pneumaticsurgical instrument 102 are coupled to stepped pneumatic drive line 600.Stepped pneumatic drive line 600 is used in system 200 in place ofpneumatic drive line 104 or 106. As such, all description herein relatedto pneumatic drive lines 104 and 106 is applicable to stepped pneumaticdrive line 600 unless stated otherwise.

Also, even though FIG. 6 shows a single stepped pneumatic drive linepowering pneumatic surgical instrument 102, other embodiments utilizemore than one stepped pneumatic drive line 600. Thus, no limitation tothe number of stepped pneumatic drive lines 600 is implied herein topower pneumatic surgical instrument 102.

Stepped pneumatic drive line 600 is substantially similar to steppedpneumatic drive line 402. However, stepped pneumatic drive line 600 hasmore than two segments where each adjacent segment are each coupled by asleeve 414. Here, the segments are identified by segment S₁ throughS_(n) where n represents the cumulative number of segments coupledtogether. Thus, stepped pneumatic drive line 600 can be comprised of anynumber of segments.

In that regard, segment S₁ adjacent surgical console 100 has an internalbore having the largest internal diameter ID_(S1) relative to any othersegment in stepped pneumatic drive line 600. In other words, as onemoves from segments S₁ to the next segment the inside diameter (e.g.ID_(S2)) of the bore of the adjacent segment (e.g. S₂) is smaller thanthe inside diameter (ID_(S1)) of the previous segment (e.g. S₁) and soforth. Thus, internal passageway 602 extending through pneumatic driveline 600 decreases in diameter from the end adjacent console 100 to theend adjacent pneumatic surgical instrument 102 resulting in a “stepped”,“bumped”, and/or “bumped tubing” drive line.

Accordingly, because pneumatic drive line 600 has a non-constant insidediameter along passageway 602, the stepped pneumatic drive line isoptimized based on its functional needs along its length. In thatregard, pneumatic drive line 600 allows for a larger volume ofpressurized gas to be received into the line from console 100 ascompared to the size of the inside diameter of drive line adjacentpneumatic surgical instrument 102. Thus, pneumatic drive line 600 allowsfor a larger volume of pressurized gas to be received into the line fromconsole 100 where high flow of pressured gas is most important in orderto optimize pneumatic performance.

Moreover, stepped pneumatic drive line 600 provides a smaller drive line(e.g. segment S_(n)) adjacent the pneumatic surgical instrument 102where high flexibility and low mass are most important for a user ofpneumatic surgical instrument 102. As shown in FIG. 6, as one moves fromsegment S₁ to the next segment the inside diameter (e.g. ID₅₂) of thebore of the adjacent segment (e.g. S₂) is smaller than the insidediameter (e.g. ID_(S1)) of the previous segment (e.g. S₁) and so forth.Additionally, as one moves from segment S₁ to the next segment theoutside diameter (e.g. OD_(S2)) of the adjacent segment (e.g. S₂) issmaller than the outside diameter (e.g. OD₁) of the previous segment(e.g. S₁) and so forth. Thus, stepped pneumatic drive line 600 providesa smaller drive line (e.g. S_(n)) adjacent the pneumatic surgicalinstrument 102 where high flexibility and low mass are most importantfor a user of pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Accordingly, steppedpneumatic drive line 600 is configured to provide greater flexibilityand a low mass while still optimizing pneumatic performance as comparedto a traditional pneumatic drive line.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of analternative embodiment of stepped pneumatic drive lines usable with thepneumatic system 200. As shown, surgical console 100 and pneumaticsurgical instrument 102 are coupled to stepped pneumatic drive lines 702and 704. Stepped pneumatic drive lines 702 and 704 are used in system200 in place of pneumatic drive lines 104 and 106, respectively. Assuch, all description herein related to pneumatic drive lines 104 and106 is applicable to stepped pneumatic drive lines 702 and 704 unlessstated otherwise.

Stepped pneumatic drive line 702 will be described below. The featuresdiscussed with respect to stepped pneumatic drive line 702 are presentin and equally applicable to stepped pneumatic drive line 704. As such,similar reference numerals have been used in FIG. 7 to identify similarfeatures with respect to stepped pneumatic drive line 702 and 704.

Also, even though FIG. 7 shows two separate stepped pneumatic drivelines 702 and 704 powering pneumatic surgical instrument 102, otherembodiments utilize a single stepped pneumatic drive line or more thantwo stepped pneumatic drive lines. Thus, no limitation to the number ofstepped pneumatic drive lines is implied herein to power pneumaticsurgical instrument 102.

Stepped pneumatic drive line 702 has a proximal end 706 that is coupledto surgical console 100 via ports 108 and a distal end 708 that iscoupled to pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Also, stepped pneumaticdrive line 702 has an internal bore 710, or passageway, extending fromthe proximal end 706 to the distal end 708. As shown, the internal bore710 extending through stepped pneumatic drive line 702 decreases indiameter from the end adjacent console 100 to the end adjacent pneumaticsurgical instrument 102.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, internal bore 710 has an insidediameter of ID₁ adjacent the surgical console 100 and an inside diameterof ID₂ adjacent the pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Inside diameterof ID₁ is greater than inside diameter of ID₂. As such internal bore 710has it largest inside diameter of ID₁ adjacent the surgical console 100and it smallest inside diameter of ID₂ adjacent the pneumatic surgicalinstrument 102.

By way of example, and not by limitation, ID₁ can be about 0.150 inches.Moreover, ID₁ can range from about 0.1 inches to about 0.3 inches.Additionally, by way of example, and not by limitation, ID₂ can be about0.06 inches. Furthermore, ID₂ can range from about 0.01 inches to about0.150 inches. However, other dimensions for ID₁ and ID₂ are contemplatedthereby no implied limitation is set forth herein.

Accordingly, internal bore 710 is “stepped” down from the console 100towards the pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Additionally, in thisembodiment, the outside diameter of pneumatic drive line 702 remainssubstantially constant from the proximal end 706 to the distal end 708of the drive line.

Based on this stepped configuration of internal bore 706, steppedpneumatic drive line 702 increases the performance of pneumatic surgicalinstrument 102 in comparison to other pneumatic instruments usingtraditional pneumatic drive line tubing. In that regard, pneumatic driveline 702 allows for a larger volume of pressurized gas to be receivedinto the line from console 100 as compared to the size of the internaldiameter of drive line adjacent pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Thus,stepped pneumatic drive line 702 allows for a larger volume ofpressurized gas to be received into the line from console 100 where highflow of pressured gas is most important in order to optimize pneumaticperformance.

Although FIG. 7 shows internal bore 710 having a single step down indiameter (e.g. from ID₁ to ID₂), in other embodiments it is contemplatedthat internal bore 702 has more than one step down. For example,internal bore 710 can have three or more different internal diametersthat produce the stepped down effect. In such embodiments, the portionof bore 710 adjacent to surgical console 100 would have the largestinternal diameter and each subsequent step down of bore 710 would have asmaller inside diameter. Thus, in such an alternative embodimentinternal bore 710 extending through stepped pneumatic drive line 702decreases in diameter from the end adjacent console 100 to the endadjacent pneumatic surgical instrument 102 resulting in a “stepped”,“bumped”, and/or “bumped tubing” drive line.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of taperedpneumatic drive lines usable with the pneumatic system 200. As shown,surgical console 100 and pneumatic surgical instrument 102 are coupledto tapered pneumatic drive lines 802 and 804. Tapered pneumatic drivelines 802 and 804 are used in system 200 in place of pneumatic drivelines 104 and 106, respectively. As such, all description herein relatedto pneumatic drive lines 104 and 106 is applicable to tapered pneumaticdrive lines 802 and 804 unless stated otherwise.

Tapered pneumatic drive line 802 will be described below. The featuresdiscussed with respect to tapered pneumatic drive line 802 are presentin and equally applicable to tapered pneumatic drive line 804. As such,similar reference numerals have been used in FIG. 8 to identify similarfeatures with respect to tapered pneumatic drive line 802 and 804.

Also, even though FIG. 8 shows two separate tapered pneumatic drivelines 802 and 804 powering pneumatic surgical instrument 102, otherembodiments utilize a single tapered pneumatic drive line or more thantwo tapered pneumatic drive lines. Thus, no limitation to the number oftapered pneumatic drive lines is implied herein to power pneumaticsurgical instrument 102.

Tapered pneumatic drive line 802 has a proximal end 806 that is coupledto surgical console 100 via ports 108 and a distal end 808 that iscoupled to pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Also, tapered pneumaticdrive line 802 has an internal bore 810, or passageway, extending fromthe proximal end 806 to the distal end 808. As shown, internal bore 810extending through tapered pneumatic drive line 802 decreases in diameterfrom the end adjacent console 100 to the end adjacent pneumatic surgicalinstrument 102.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, tapered pneumatic drive line 802continuously tapers from the surgical console 100 to the pneumaticsurgical instrument 102. In other words, an exterior surface 812 ofpneumatic drive line 802 and an interior surface 814 defining bore 810both continuously taper from the proximal end 806 to the distal end 808of tapered pneumatic drive line 802.

As such internal bore 810 has it largest inside diameter of ID₁ adjacentthe surgical console 100 and it smallest inside diameter of ID₂ adjacentthe pneumatic surgical instrument 102. By way of example, and not bylimitation, ID₁ can be about 0.150 inches. Moreover, ID₁ can range fromabout 0.1 inches to about 0.3 inches. Additionally, by way of example,and not by limitation, ID₂ can be about 0.06 inches. Furthermore, ID₂can range from about 0.01 inches to about 0.150 inches. However, otherdimensions for ID₁ and ID₂ are contemplated thereby no impliedlimitation is set forth herein.

Moreover, tapered pneumatic drive line 802 has it largest outsidediameter of OD₁ adjacent the surgical console 100 and it smallestoutside diameter of OD₂ adjacent the pneumatic surgical instrument 102.By way of example, and not by limitation, OD₁ can be about 0.250 inches.Moreover, OD₁ can range from about 0.15 inches to about 0.5 inches.Additionally, by way of example, and not by limitation, OD₂ can be about0.125 inches. Furthermore, OD₂ can range from about 0.05 inches to about0.20 inches. However, other dimensions for OD₁ and OD₂ are contemplatedthereby no implied limitation is set forth herein.

Accordingly, because tapered pneumatic drive line 802 has a non-constantinside diameter along bore 810, the tapered pneumatic drive line isoptimized based on its functional needs along its length. In thatregard, tapered pneumatic drive line 802 allows for a larger volume ofpressurized gas to be received into the line from console 100 ascompared to the size of the internal diameter of drive line adjacentpneumatic surgical instrument 102. Thus, tapered pneumatic drive line802 allows for a larger volume of pressurized gas to be received intothe line from console 100 where high flow of pressured gas is mostimportant in order to optimize pneumatic performance. Moreover, becauseexterior surface 812 is tapered, tapered pneumatic drive line 802provides a smaller drive line adjacent the pneumatic surgical instrument102 where high flexibility and low mass are most important for a user ofpneumatic surgical instrument 102. Therefore, tapered pneumatic driveline 802 is configured to provide greater flexibility and a low masswhile still optimizing pneumatic performance as compared to traditionalpneumatic drive lines.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a partial cross-sectional view of analternative embodiment of tapered pneumatic drive lines usable with thepneumatic system 200. As shown, surgical console 100 and pneumaticsurgical instrument 102 are coupled to tapered pneumatic drive lines 902and 904. Tapered pneumatic drive lines 902 and 904 are used in system200 in place of pneumatic drive lines 104 and 106, respectively. Assuch, all description herein related to pneumatic drive lines 104 and106 is applicable to tapered pneumatic drive lines 902 and 904 unlessstated otherwise.

Tapered pneumatic drive line 902 will be described below. The featuresdiscussed with respect to tapered pneumatic drive line 902 are presentin and equally applicable to tapered pneumatic drive line 904. As such,similar reference numerals have been used in FIG. 9 to identify similarfeatures with respect to tapered pneumatic drive lines 902 and 904.

Also, even though FIG. 9 shows two separate tapered pneumatic drivelines 902 and 904 powering pneumatic surgical instrument 102, otherembodiments utilize a single tapered pneumatic drive line or more thantwo tapered pneumatic drive lines. Thus, no limitation to the number oftapered pneumatic drive lines is implied herein to power pneumaticsurgical instrument 102.

Tapered pneumatic drive line 902 has a proximal end 906 that is coupledto surgical console 100 via ports 108 and a distal end 908 that iscoupled to pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Also, tapered pneumaticdrive line 902 has an internal bore 910, or passageway, extending fromthe proximal end 906 to the distal end 908. As shown, the internal bore910 extending through pneumatic drive line 902 decreases in diameterfrom the end adjacent console 100 to the end adjacent pneumatic surgicalinstrument 102.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, internal bore 910 is continuouslytapered from the surgical console 100 to the pneumatic surgicalinstrument 102. In other words, pneumatic drive line 902 has an interiorsurface 912 defining bore 910 that continuously tapers from the proximalend 906 to the distal end 908 of tapered pneumatic drive line 902.

As such internal bore 910 has it largest inside diameter of ID₁ adjacentthe surgical console 100 and it smallest inside diameter of ID₂ adjacentthe pneumatic surgical instrument 102. By way of example, and not bylimitation, ID₁ can be about 0.150 inches. Moreover, ID₁ can range fromabout 0.1 inches to about 0.3 inches. Additionally, by way of example,and not by limitation, ID₂ can be about 0.06 inches. Furthermore, ID₂can range from about 0.01 inches to about 0.150 inches. However, otherdimensions for ID₁ and ID₂ are contemplated thereby no impliedlimitation is set forth herein.

Accordingly, the internal bore 910 is continuously “tapered” down fromthe console 100 towards the pneumatic surgical instrument 102. However,unlike the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the outside diameter of taperedpneumatic drive line 902 remains substantially constant from theproximal end 906 to the distal end 908 of the drive line.

Based on this tapered configuration of internal bore 910, taperedpneumatic drive line 902 increases the performance of pneumatic surgicalinstrument 102 in comparison to other pneumatic instruments usingtraditional pneumatic drive line tubing. In that regard, pneumatic driveline 902 allows for a larger volume of pressurized gas to be receivedinto the line from console 100 as compared to the size of the internaldiameter of drive line adjacent pneumatic surgical instrument 102. Thus,pneumatic drive line 902 allows for a larger volume of pressurized gasto be received into the line from console 100 where high flow ofpressured gas is most important in order to optimize pneumaticperformance.

Moreover, it should be noted that the pneumatic drive lines disclosedherein can be further optimized by adjusting their length. As discussedabove, the pneumatic drive lines disclosed herein can be used with asurgical instrument having a probe cutter, such as probe cutter 214. Itis often desirable to achieve a specified cutting rate for a cuttingprobe. In that regard, the length of the pneumatic drive line effectsthe cutting rate of a surgical instrument. Specifically, the resonanceeffect of the pneumatic drive line changes as the length of the driveline changes which in turn affects the cutting rate for the surgicalinstrument. Thus, there is a correlation between a length of the driveline and the lines ability to achieve a desired cutting rate.Accordingly, the pneumatic drive lines disclosed herein can be furtheroptimized by having a specified length that achieves a desired cut rate.

Additionally, even though specific arrangements of pneumatic drive lineshave been described herein, no limitation is implied. Thus, anycombination of the pneumatic drive lines disclosed herein are useabletogether and/or separately to power a surgical instrument. Moreover, itis contemplated that a surgical instrument can be powered via acombination of stepped pneumatic drive lines and/or tapered pneumaticdrive lines. For example, a pneumatic surgical instrument can be poweredusing one or more of the above described stepped pneumatic drive linesalone or in combination with one or more of the above described taperedpneumatic drive lines.

Additionally, it is contemplated that a pneumatic surgical instrumentcan be powered using any combination of the above described steppedpneumatic drive lines. For example, the above described steppedpneumatic drive lines can be combined in a manner to power a pneumaticsurgical instrument. Thus, no limitation is implied based on theforegoing description with respect to the stepped pneumatic drive lines.

Furthermore, it is contemplated that a pneumatic surgical instrument canbe powered using any combination of the above described taperedpneumatic drive lines. For example, the above described taperedpneumatic drive lines can be combined in a manner to power a pneumaticsurgical instrument. Thus, no limitation is implied based on theforegoing description with respect to the tapered pneumatic drive lines.

While the present disclosure has been illustrated by the abovedescription of embodiments, and while the embodiments have beendescribed in some detail, it is not the intention of the applicants torestrict or in any way limit the scope of the present disclosure to suchdetail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear tothose skilled in the art. Therefore, the present disclosure in itsbroader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representativeapparatus and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described.Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departingfrom the spirit or scope of the applicant's general or inventiveconcept.

We claim:
 1. A system comprising: a source of compressed gas; apneumatic vitrectomy probe comprising an oscillating cutter, a firstchamber and a second chamber separated by a diaphragm; a surgicalconsole operable to provide the compressed gas from the source ofcompressed gas to the pneumatic vitrectomy probe to oscillate thecutter; and a first flexible pneumatic drive line and a second flexiblepneumatic drive line coupling the pneumatic vitrectomy probe to thesurgical console, the first and second flexible pneumatic drive lineshaving internal bores, the surgical console configured to deliver andvent the compressed gas to and from the pneumatic vitrectomy probethrough the internal bores of the first and second drive lines; whereinthe first flexible pneumatic drive line is in fluid communication withthe first chamber of the vitrectomy probe and the second flexiblepneumatic drive line is in fluid communication with the second chamberof the vitrectomy probe; wherein a first end of the first flexiblepneumatic drive line at the surgical console has a first outer diameterand a first inner diameter, wherein a second end of the first flexiblepneumatic drive line at the first chamber of the vitrectomy probe has asecond outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter anda second inner diameter that is smaller than the first inner diameter,wherein the first flexible pneumatic drive line continuously tapers fromthe surgical console to the first chamber of the vitrectomy probe, andwherein the second end of the first flexible pneumatic drive line ismore flexible than the first end of the first flexible pneumatic driveline; wherein a first end of the second flexible pneumatic drive line atthe surgical console has a third outer diameter and a third innerdiameter, wherein a second end of the second flexible pneumatic driveline at the second chamber of the vitrectomy probe has a fourth outerdiameter that is smaller than the third outer diameter and a fourthinner diameter that is smaller than the third inner diameter, whereinthe second flexible pneumatic drive line continuously tapers from thesurgical console to the second chamber of the vitrectomy probe, andwherein the second end of the second flexible pneumatic drive line ismore flexible than the first end of the second flexible pneumatic driveline.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first end of the firstflexible pneumatic drive line is attached to a port on the surgicalconsole and the second end of the first flexible pneumatic drive line isattached to a port on the pneumatic vitrectomy probe, and wherein theinternal bore is tapered from the first end to the second end of thefirst flexible pneumatic drive line.
 3. The system of claim 1, whereinthe first inner diameter is within a range of 0.1 and 0.3 inches.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the second inner diameter is within a rangeof 0.01 and 0.150 inches.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the firstouter diameter is within a range of 0.15 and 0.5 inches.
 6. The systemof claim 1, wherein the second outer diameter is within a range of 0.05and 0.20 inches.